Tips to control asthma and allergies

People can have allergies or asthma. Many people have both. Allergies can make asthma symptoms worse so it’s important to control both asthma and allergies.

5 Tips to help you control your seasonal allergies

Pay attention to pollen counts[theweathernetwork.com]. On days when pollen counts are high, limit your time outdoors. Pollen counts tend to be highest during the early morning hours, on windy days and on stormy days.

Protect yourself from allergens. Using saline rinses for your nose regularly can help keep your nose clear and may reduce symptoms.

Speak with your doctor about allergy medication. There’s different options depending on your symptoms – from antihistamines to nasal sprays to allergy shots. Work with your doctor to find the right solution for you and stick to it.

Take your allergy medication as prescribed. Many allergy medications, including nasal treatments work best if taken on a regular basis to help not only treat symptoms but prevent them.

Make your environment as allergy-proof as possible. Shut your windows at home (especially where you sleep), take your shoes off at the door, minimize clutter that collects dust, use a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA (high-efficiency particulate air) filter, wash your bedding with hot water to kill dust mites weekly, and avoid any exposure to smoke.

5 tips to help you control your asthma

Take your asthma medications as prescribed. Everyone with asthma should have a rescue medication. Always have your rescue/emergency inhaler with you. Many people will also have medications that prevent asthma symptoms and should be taken daily.

Identify and avoid environmental triggers as much as possible (dust, pollen, mold, smoke, air pollution).